Running for Charity in SF

Running a marathon or half marathon is no easy task, but for many people, that’s all the more reason to do it. Marathons are great way to raise money for a good cause such as breast cancer, leukemia, diabetes, and the list goes on and on. San Francisco is a fantastic place to run and hosts many events throughout the year. Whether you just love being active or feel the need to give back to the community, there’s sure to be an event that suits your lifestyle and running pace. You don’t have to be an expert to do it! Many organized marathons offer training as well to get you in the best shape possible before you hit the pavement. Here are some of the marathons for charity that are happening this year:

San Francisco Plunge & 5K Fun Run/Walk – February 21, 2015

(Photo courtesy of www.polarplungenorcalnv.com)

You have the choice to plunge only, plunge and run/walk or run/walk only. If you’re wondering what the plunge is, it’s a party! The Polar Plunge is a unique opportunity to support Special Olympics Athletes by jumping into winter-chilled waters! All funds raised benefit almost 20,000 Special Olympic athletes in Northern California and Nevada. Enjoy the majestic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Chrissy Fields and the Bay Area as you run or walk the beautiful 5K course. For more information, please go to: http://www.polarplungenorcalnv.com/sanfrancisco/.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon – March 29, 2015

(Photo courtesy of cdn.funcheap.com)

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series is the ‘World’s Largest Running Series’ with more than 500,000 people taking part in races across North America every year. There will be live bands playing along the course, cheer teams, and entertaining water stations. It makes for a party-like atmosphere that makes long distance running approachable, fun, and continues to celebrate the run and not just the finish. The rock band American Authors will headline your post-race concert festival lineup!

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series has raised over $235 million for their respective causes since its inception in 1998. This year’s lead charity partner is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which has changed the way the world treats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases. For event details, entry fees, and more information, please visit:

The San Francisco Marathon encompasses multiple races in one weekend, including a full marathon, 1st half marathon, 2nd half marathon, 5K and an Ultramarathon. Take a journey around the city through a course that hits gorgeous locales and iconic landmarks all along the way. This is a great opportunity for nonprofits to raise much-needed funds. Official charities include Getty Owl Foundation, which helps fight the number one killer of young children, spinal muscular atrophy, The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, and a number of others. For more information, please visit: http://www.thesfmarathon.com/charity/official-charities/.

These are just a few of the marathons that are taking place in 2015. For many other races happening in California this year, check out this website for a full list of dates: http://www.runningintheusa.com/Race/List.aspx?Rank=Month&State=CA&Month=2. If you’ve never raced before, it can be a bit scary to think about running for a few hours or so. Just remember that trying your best to finish is what matters most and winning isn’t the point. If you’re running or donating to a good cause, that’s a first place trophy right there! Peninsula Auto Body would like to thank those who participate in runs for charity as you truly make the world a better place. Thank you for giving back to the community and making the San Francisco Bay Area such a wonderful place to live!